“The true reader reads every work seriously in the sense that he reads it whole-heartedly, makes himself as receptive as he can. But for that very reason he cannot possibly read every work solemly or gravely. For he will read 'in the same spirit that the author writ.'… He will never commit the error of trying to munch whipped cream as if it were venison.” ― C.S. Lewis, An Experiment in Criticism

Monthly Archives: March 2015

The Soldier’s Wife by Margaret Leroy My rating: 4 of 5 stars When I read in E. Goudge’s autobiography “The Joy of the Snow” about how the Guernsey Islands were occupied during World War 2, I always wondered what had … Continue reading →

“A little Madness in the Spring Is wholesome even for the King.” ― Emily Dickinson “Spring was moving in the air above and in the earth below and around him, penetrating even his dark and lowly little house with … Continue reading →

The Passing Bells by Phillip Rock My rating: 3 of 5 stars I have mixed feelings about this book! I really liked the historical/World War I element. I learned more about the frustrations with the way the war was ‘managed’ … Continue reading →

I really enjoyed “Russian Winter”! Nina is a ballerina who rises to fame in the mid-fifties in Russia. Her story is contrasted along with that of her close childhood friend Vera, who begins ballet school together with Nina. Vera’s story … Continue reading →

David McCullough never disappoints! His research is impeccable and his writing makes history come alive. It was fascinating to read this one year overview and realize that American almost did *not* last as a new nation. How much we owe … Continue reading →